C-39289: OCT: Interpreting the image

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used increasingly in optometric practice to identify retinal pathology, to improve referral accuracy and to monitor for progression of disease. It is vital that the optometrist understands the image in front of them and knows how to describe any abnormality to another professional.

AOP Awards - years gone by

The AOP Awards was launched in 2011 to recognise the achievements of people in the profession. Since their establishment the Awards have grown in popularity and last year almost 26,000 votes were cast across the 11 categories. The winners were revealed in front of more than 240 people at a black tie gala dinner and ceremony at Birmingham's Hilton Metropole. Continue to read more about the winners from 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Researchers identify genetic markers for keratoconus

Researchers have identified genetic markers that are associated with central corneal thickness and keratoconus.

Fight for Sight-funded clinical researcher, Professor Colin Willoughby (pictured), along with colleagues from Queen’s University, performed a meta-analysis on more than 20,000 individuals from Europe and Asia.

They identified 16 new loci associated with central corneal thickness. They also identified two loci that were associated with an increased keratoconus risk.

These genetic markers may enable researchers to develop treatments based on the therapeutic targets to prevent the diseases from developing or progressing.

The research was published in the journal Nature Genetics.

Commenting on the findings, Fight for Sight’s director of research, Dolores Conroy, said: “Despite the visual and social impact of keratoconus, the underlying biochemical processes and pathobiology remain poorly understood. Corneal transplantation, although effective, carries inherent risk so research into alternative treatments for keratoconus is welcomed.”